PANJIM: The evidence room of the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) court at Altinho was burgled on Tuesday evening. The incident has proved an absolute mockery of the security at important judicial buildings in the ‘Smart City’ of Panjim.
In a seemingly well-thought out plan, the burglar targeted the evidence room where currency notes, gold ornaments and other valuables are stored as part of case evidence. Out of the two almirahs in the room, the burglar broke into one of them and decamped with the valuables. He was captured on the CCTV camera of the court.
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The Chief Judicial Magistrate filed a complaint before the Panjim police, notifying them of the robbery.
Superintendent of Police North Goa Nidhin Valsan has confirmed that burglary was the main intent of the accused and added that there was no sign of forced entry at the crime scene.“It seems to be the handiwork of someone who is well versed with the functioning of the court. The accused was aware of the value of the materials stored in the room,” said SP Valsan.
The SP also admitted that it is a clear lapse on the part of the security team that was manning the premises and that the department concerned will take necessary action.
Activist and advocate Aires Rodrigues said, “Last night’s break-in at the premises of the Panaji Subordinate Courts at Altinho only reflects how far and wide the miscreants have ventured to spread their tentacles. Do we need any further proof that the law-and-order situation in the State is a matter of grave concern? With crime having reached this alarming level, who is or can feel safe now?” he questioned.
“The least that one would expect the government to do is to ensure that the judicial institutions and their records are safe from criminals. This also brings to the fore the pressing need of providing necessary personal security for Judges at all levels,” he remarked.
